Question:

I have been taking 250mg of magnesium at bed time for many years. I had a problem with dizziness and vomitting 6-7 time a day so my family doctor put me on pantoprazole magnesium(Tecta). When I seen the name had magnesium in the name I stoped taking the magnesium I took bed time because I didn`t want to take too much. How much magnesium is in Tecta and can I still take the 250mg at bed time or that would be too much?

Answer:

The amount of magnesium in one tablet of pantoprazole magnesium is approximately 1.3mg, far less than the amount of magnesium in foods such as green leafy vegetables and nuts or supplements.  If you continue taking the 250mg magnesium supplement at bedtime, this shouldn’t be more than the daily recommended amount of magnesium for an adult.  For adults aged 31 years or older, the recommended daily allowance of magnesium is 420mg per day for men, and 320mg per day for women.  Also, depending on the type of magnesium supplement you take, it may contain less than 250mg of elemental magnesium, which is what the recommended daily allowance is based on.  

However, be cautious when taking any over-the-counter products such as antacids and laxatives, which may contain a significant amount of magnesium.  Signs of getting too much magnesium may include diarrhea and abdominal cramping, but these may also be caused by other medications or conditions, so talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms.??

Submitted by Katie Moore, PharmD candidate, NetWellness.org James L. Winkle College of Pharmacy

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